A Step-by-Step Guide to GDE Online School Admissions Registration

Step 1: Register Parent Details

  • To apply, visit www.gdeadmissions.gov.za and click “Register”. Follow the 5 steps to submit an application.
  • You can apply even if you don’t have documents. Choose “No Documents” in Step 1.
  • If you get stuck at the ID section, refresh the page, check your ID number, and complete the name fields.
  • If Department of Home Affairs (DHA) Validation is unavailable, try three times. After the third attempt, you can proceed.
  • If you’re having trouble proceeding after entering a password, ensure your password meets the criteria: lowercase, uppercase, numeric character, special character, and 8 or more characters.
  • To have your child repeat Grade 1 or 8, consult the school regarding retention based on academic performance.

Step 2: Adding Parent Address

  • If you can’t find your address, use the “Can’t find address?” option or select it on the map.
  • You can use your work address, but home addresses within school feeder zones are prioritized.

Step 3: Register Learner Details

  • Your child should be turning 6 by June 30 in the year they’ll attend Grade 1.
  • You can apply without identification documents for your child by selecting “No Documents”.
  • A parent can apply for a maximum of 3 children per grade.
  • Twins/triplets will be placed in the same school if linked to one parent.

Step 4: Applying to a School

  • Complete a 5-step process. After completing your application, you’ll receive an SMS with a reference number.
  • To secure a spot, apply to multiple schools, submit necessary documents, and ensure your address is in the school’s feeder zone.
  • Fraudulent or falsified documents can lead to disqualification.

Step 5: Uploading Documents

  • You need to submit certified copies of documents like birth certificates, ID, proof of address, and more within 7 days of application.
  • If you don’t have a proof of residence, your child will be placed based on available space.
  • Documents must be certified; otherwise, they won’t be verified.
  • If waiting for ID or birth certificate, upload temporary documents from Home Affairs.
  • Proof of residence is crucial as it determines school placement priority.
  • You can either upload documents online or submit hard copies to schools but not both.
  • You cannot upload all documents as one PDF. Each document must be scanned and uploaded separately.
  • An application doesn’t guarantee placement; it queues your application for verification and placement consideration.

Safety and Security

  • It’s recommended not to use internet cafes to apply or upload documents for security reasons.